2007 BMW 120 vs. 1981 Saab 900
To start off, 2007 BMW 120 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 120 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1981 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 120 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2007 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Saab 900, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2007 BMW 120 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 120 | 1981 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 120 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2530 mm |
